Various Aspects of Otherness of the Villain in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter Series. Prolegomena

Abstract

The paper portrays various aspects of Otherness included in the Harry Potter cycle by J.K. Rowling, focusing on the villain – Lord Voldermort. By Otherness of the character, the author of the report means the interference of the forces triggered by him that disturbs the established order in the presented world. The character’s predisposition, deeds and goals pose a threat to two planes which he contacts with: magical and non-magical ones. He combines features that are known and unknown to the others: he is and is not a human being at the same time. Additionally, the paper depicts the villain’s Otherness which has a dynamic nature. Over the course of the plot, the figure undergoes A metamorphosis and evolves in his Otherness which is built upon three basic spheres concerning the name, the body, and the soul. This is particularly noticeable in the aspect of his life and passing. In order to avoid death, which frightens him, he decides to split his soul into several parts (Horcruxes). This is meant to ensure his immortality. As a result, his soul as well as his material body is destroyed. However, he does not die ultimately. Although Voldermort remains in the world of the living, he is neither a human being nor a spirit. The conception of the villain’s soul indicates its independence from the flesh. After his downfall Voldermort enters other beings’ bodies to be his temporal Horcruxes. Using their obedience, he manipulates them to regain his lost power and body. All in all, it is character’s inability to love that ultimately proves his state of Otherness.